MAYORAL CANDIDATES

Occupation: Consultant who retired after 30 years working for the city, most recently as risk manager

Past elected office: None

Political party: Democrat

Martin Ramsey

Lives: North Asheville

Age: 31

Occupation: Waiter

Past elected office held: None

Political party: Unaffiliated

CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Cecil Bothwell

Lives: North Asheville

Age: 62

Occupation: Author, publisher, green builder

Past elected office held: Serving first term on City Council

Political party: Democrat

Why should people vote for you?

Many elected officials are beholden to corporate donors, special interest groups, elite cliques or political parties. However, my loyalties lie with the citizens of Asheville. From the beginning I have been an outspoken opponent of GOP legislative overreach in Raleigh and have joined my fellow City Council members in condemning the seizure of Asheville's water system. Furthermore I am a strong advocate for civil liberties and equal rights, and I am passionate about protecting our environment. When re-elected, I will continue to take a stand on your behalf and for the rights of every man, woman and child in Asheville.

Mike Lanning

Lives: South Asheville

Age: 52

Occupation: Retired city police officer

Past elected office held: None

Political party: Democrat

Why should people vote for you?

My career working for local government gives me great insight into how the political system and local government works. I have seen successes and failures with the inner workings of the city and understand what needs to change to improve its effectiveness. Making decisions by serving on City Council will give me the opportunity to give all citizens a city that they are proud to reside in. I will make decisions based on what is best for the city and its people; not by political affiliation. I will bring accountability and transparency to City Council.

Gordon Smith

Lives: West Asheville

Age: 42

Occupation: Child and family therapist

Past elected office held: Serving first term on City Council

Political party: Democrat

Why should people vote for you?

We can grow Asheville's middle class and become a more independent, more resilient community. We can have more living-wage jobs, more affordable housing, more affordable transportation, increased food security, and a culture of equality for all of our citizens. Asheville is an aspirational city, and we can rise to this occasion. My record speaks for itself. I've been a leader in increasing affordable housing funding, improving multimodal transportation infrastructure, passing equality measures, surpassing sustainability goals, and establishing the City of Asheville Food Action Plan. There's work left to do, and I'm asking you for the opportunity to serve a second term.

Jonathan Wainscott

Lives: West Asheville

Age: 42

Occupation: Former self-employed woodworker, craftsman, interior designer. Currently stay-at-home father

Past elected office held: None

Political party: Unaffiliated

Why should people vote for you?

The lack of problem solving skills within the current and previous councils has created a cumbersome channel of bureaucracy that is crippling the ability to properly maintain our civic services and assets. Simple solutions to large problems are overlooked in the pursuit of perfect answers to complex issues. ?

Our school system, child care programs, public safety, and quality of life is top priority when presenting our community as a place worth doing business. The same things that make Asheville an attractive place to live make Asheville a wonderful place to grow a business.

Gwen Wisler

Lives: North Asheville

Age: 53

Occupation: Owner of Asheville Profits, a business consulting company where clients pay for the work by donating time to a local nonprofit of the client's choosing

Past elected office held: None

Political party: Democrat

Why should people vote for you?

I support a safe, healthy and vibrant Asheville. I hope to add my experience in business and finance to the council to enhance fiscal accountability and government transparency. I will work to support local businesses, encourage job growth and increase transportation choices. I pride myself on listening to all sides and trying to craft solutions that address everyone's needs. In general, I will encourage staff and council to aggressively pursue the objectives outlined in the city's long-term strategic plans. All of Asheville, including all races, sexual orientations, and economic status, need to be a part of the dialogue.